yoga

noun

yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
Yoga : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote physical and emotional well-being
yogic adjective
often Yogic

Examples of yoga in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As seen in a video on social media, Cardi and Diggs kicked off their shoes to participate in the yoga class. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 16 Dec. 2025 Like yoga teachers, these sauna masters are certified through courses that teach them the specific towel-swinging techniques. Amelia Arvesen, Outside, 16 Dec. 2025 The 75-foot lap pool, poolside bar, and sunrise lawn for yoga are ideal for catching sunrays, while the Sunrise Restaurant with lush landscaping by Enzo Enea, plus the private club with exclusive programming and personalized service, helps residents dine and unwind in style, too. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2025 Regardless, McDonald has left a legacy of dramatic growth and a focus on sport, including yoga, of course, but also running, training, golf and tennis. Evan Clark, Footwear News, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for yoga

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti he yokes; akin to Latin jungere to join — more at yoke

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yoga was in 1785

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yoga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yoga. Accessed 17 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu philosophy teaching that by holding back the activity of one's body, mind, and will one can know one's true self and be free
2
: a system of exercises for gaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Medical Definition

yoga

noun
yo·​ga ˈyō-gə How to pronounce yoga (audio)
1
capitalized : a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation
2
: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation derived from Yoga but often practiced independently especially in Western cultures to promote bodily or mental control and well-being see hatha yoga
yogic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on yoga

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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